Research should be done with and by patients—not just to or about them—because meaningful research is shaped by many perspectives.
Partnered Research In Sleep Medicine
Partnered Research in Sleep Medicine (PRISM) is a new initiative that addresses sleep health disparities affecting underserved communities through community conversations, awareness and shared resources. PRISM’s mission is to engage with local partners and create patient-centered solutions for common sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and insomnia. By collaborating with community members and organizations in West Philadelphia and national partners on the PRISM advisory board, PRISM is building a foundation for partnered research to address sleep health inequities.
Our overall objective is to establish infrastructure for PRISM that will support community member engagement in sleep research focused on sleep apnea and insomnia with particular focus on addressing inequities. We plan to create a learning environment through community awareness events, “focus groups” (termed engagement studios), and with an Advisory Board that includes community leaders and members in Philadelphia and other stakeholders. These first steps will begin build sustainable partnerships so that community members are empowered to be partners in sleep research.